Showing in theaters across the country the 58-year-old Hollywood star almost is playing himself in his latest movie, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Capitalizing on assumed characteristics of a Hollywood star, the real Nicolas Cage plays the lead as “Nick Cage,” leaving little doubt of some parody. What draws viewers in is the over-the-top antics and larger-than-life acting.
This is no serious depiction of a self-absorbed star but a lighthearted look at rich and famous stardom. Nick’s supporting lead is played by Pedro Pascal, who breaks in as the film seems to be a little overbearing. Pascal’s character proves an outstanding balance to Cage’s portrayal. To counterbalance both leads, movie clips of the real Cage are used to bolster his character’s authenticity.
Co-writer and sole director Tom Gormican have Cage yearning for one last great role. Sharon Horgan plays the washed-out aging actor’s snarky ex-wife. To further make the point that Cage is out of sync, Lily Sheen plays a typically critical teenager. To set the stage, Cage is short on cash and not working. Living out of a hotel, Cage is ready to use his remaining celebrity on anything for money.
Then the plot takes off. A wealthy Spaniard and ardent fan, Javi, played by Pascal, wants Cage to attend his birthday party and is willing to pay. Cage soon finds out that the opportunity is complicated. Javi is a well-known leader of a criminal organization with two US government agents following his tracks.
Somehow Cage thinks having played the role of an agent qualifies him for the real-life role. As Cage plays a government agent, he develops an affinity for Javi. As a pair, Cage is bonding while Javi is more interested in breaking into the movies. A display of male egos and the shared love of the film begins to play out.
If you are any fan of the real Nicolas Cage, this is an opportunity to see him shine in a new role. He sheds much of his tough-guy image and performs a light, if not revealing, side of his persona. While the film may be a stretch as an award winner, it is unique and unique enough to keep you amused from beginning to end.
